The Original King Kamehameha Statue is a historical landmark located in the small town of Hawi, Hawaii. The statue is a bronze sculpture of King Kamehameha I, the first king of Hawaii who united the Hawaiian Islands under one rule in the late 18th century. The statue stands at an impressive 14 feet tall and weighs over 6 tons.
The statue depicts King Kamehameha I standing tall with his right arm extended, holding a spear. He is dressed in traditional Hawaiian clothing, including a feathered cloak and helmet. The statue is placed on a large stone pedestal, which is surrounded by lush greenery and tropical flowers.
The Original King Kamehameha Statue was created by American sculptor Thomas Ridgeway Gould in 1883. It was originally commissioned by King David Kalakaua, who wanted to honor King Kamehameha I and his contributions to Hawaii. The statue was first placed in front of the Judiciary Building in Honolulu, but was later moved to its current location in Hawi in 1912.
The statue has become a popular tourist attraction in Hawi, drawing visitors from all over the world. It is a symbol of Hawaiian history and culture, and serves as a reminder of the legacy of King Kamehameha I. Visitors can take photos with the statue and learn more about its history at the nearby King Kamehameha Statue Park.
Overall, The Original King Kamehameha Statue is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Hawi or the Big Island of Hawaii. Its impressive size and historical significance make it a true treasure of Hawaiian culture.
